Adam Berry
Indiana’s tech sector is thriving. In recent years, the industry has brought thousands of new jobs and billions of dollars to our state economy. In my capacity as vice president of economic development and technology at the Indiana Chamber of Commerce, I help our organization serve as a leading advocate for entrepreneurship, innovation and other matters that will undoubtedly drive Indiana’s economic growth. The Indiana Chamber so believes in innovation as a catalyst that it’s one of the six pillars of our latest visioning plan for the state, Indiana Prosperity 2035.
It is essential that state officials, policymakers and lawmakers continue fostering a supportive, tech-friendly environment. This includes, for example, public and private collaboration to avoid burdensome legislation or regulations that stifle innovation. It also means supporting investments and programs that propel technology adoption. For example, hundreds of Hoosier businesses have benefited from manufacturing readiness grants, resulting from a state-funded program that encourages manufacturers to upgrade their operations with emerging technologies (e.g., automation, 3D printing, etc.).
Indiana’s colleges and universities also deserve credit for the work they are doing to foster the next generation of tech innovators. For example, this year Trine University hosted the inaugural Artificial Intelligence Maritime Maneuver Indiana Collegiate Challenge, an invitation-only event that tasks college students with designing, programming and launching an autonomous, AI-powered watercraft. Ivy Tech and IU Kelley faculty and students recently launched a partnership to provide digital literacy training and assistance to advance broadband and connectivity knowledge in communities and across southcentral Indiana. Purdue University Northwest recently announced it is developing a quantum commercialization center as part of the Roberts Impact Lab, which will be the centerpiece of a new $40 million-plus innovation district in downtown Hammond.
These and other similar efforts around Indiana demonstrate the need to invest in education and training programs that will equip our current and future workforce with the skills needed to excel in technology-related fields. By building a strong talent pipeline and encouraging STEM education, we can ensure that Hoosiers are capable of filling the jobs of the future and contribute to the continued expansion of Indiana’s tech ecosystem.
Attracting and retaining talent, companies and investment is possible only with a culture that embraces a tech-friendly future. Indiana is poised for continued growth, but it will require a spirit of cooperation and optimism to see it through.
Adam H. Berry is vice president of economic development and technology at the Indiana Chamber of Commerce in Indianapolis.
